* MASSH – PROLIFE Hospital reports 3–4 new kidney cancer cases each month
* 30% of the cases are in patients below the age of 50
* Tobacco use, obesity, and high blood pressure identified as major contributors
* Nephron-sparing surgery proving to be a safer option for patients
Ludhiana: Kidney cancer cases are on the rise, and the number of patients reporting to the OPD with this condition has been steadily increasing. What is particularly concerning is that nearly 30% of these cases are now being seen in individuals below the age of 50.
On the occasion of World Kidney Cancer Day, Dr. Varun Mittal, Urologist and Kidney Transplant Surgeon at MASSH – PROLIFE Hospital, Ludhiana, highlighted a worrisome trend — kidney cancer cases have significantly increased over the last few years. “Previously, we would diagnose 1–2 cases per month, but now we are seeing an average of 3–4 cases monthly,” he said. This shift indicates a growing prevalence of the disease.
However, due to increased awareness, early detection has improved. Patients are getting diagnosed at earlier stages and younger ages, enabling timely treatment and better outcomes.
Tobacco use in any form significantly increases cancer risk. In Ludhiana and nearby areas, rising rates of obesity and high blood pressure are also key contributing factors. These three — tobacco, obesity, and hypertension — are emerging as major lifestyle-related triggers for kidney cancer.
“Earlier, kidney cancer was more common in the elderly, but now younger individuals are increasingly affected,” Dr. Mittal noted. “Previously, only 10–20% of cases involved younger patients, but now nearly 30% of our cases are in those under 50. That said, the most affected age group remains 50–55 years.”
Among younger patients, obesity and tobacco use are major drivers. Dr. Mittal emphasized that the surge in lifestyle diseases, especially obesity and tobacco addiction, is directly impacting the younger demographic, leading to early-onset cases.
Speaking about treatment advancements, he said that nephron-sparing surgery, also known as *partial nephrectomy, is now more commonly performed. This approach removes only the tumor, preserving the rest of the kidney. It is particularly beneficial for patients with diabetes or high blood pressure, whose kidneys are already compromised. For those battling obesity or diabetes, laparoscopic surgery has proven to be a boon, offering fewer risks compared to open surgery.
On this World Kidney Cancer Day, Dr. Mittal urged people to adopt healthier lifestyles. “Avoid tobacco in all forms, stay active, and get regular health checkups. If you notice blood in urine or any urinary discomfort, do not ignore the signs. Consult a urologist promptly. Early detection always leads to better treatment outcomes,” he concluded.
